Hutchinson, however, sees a possible move to Celtic as the perfect platform for Roberts to re-establish himself as one of the top English talents When the defender made his move from Fir Park to Craven Cottage in 2014 he was quick to notice Roberts’ talent after some devastating displays on the training ground.

The Motherwell old boy said: “Patrick was highly rated in the youth system and they were tipping him to make it into the first-team.

“In my first year at Fulham he got into the top-team set-up.

“When I first saw him training, I thought he was one of the most talented players I had ever seen at that age group.

“Patrick would just skip past people for fun.

“That is what he has in his locker. He was sticking it through your legs every time in training. It was a signal of his potential.”

Roberts’ progress had been expected. Having joined Fulham from AFC Wimbledon at just 13, a pro contract was dished out four years later.

Felix Magath, who was manager at the time, described him as “an extraordinary talent” as he made a Premier League debut before joining Hutchinson for a full season in the Championship.

Hutchinson said: “I spent about a year-and-a-half with Patrick and he’s some talent.

“I’d say he’s an out-and-out winger. That is 100 per cent where he is at his best.”

City didn’t miss him. Manuel Pellegrini’s scouts were aware of the talent and a big-money bid was soon slapped in.

Hutchinson said: “I’m sure it was hard for Fulham because they would have wanted him to stay and be a major player.

“But when City come along with the amount of money they are prepared to offer, it must be pretty difficult for any of the parties involved to say no.”

Roberts settled quickly into the City set-up, making a debut in pre-season before playing as a sub in the League Cup against Sunderland and then in a 4-1 Premier League loss at Tottenham.

Having represented England from Under-16 to Under-19 level, Brooking and the FA coaches made their assessments.

Roberts played an integral part in their victory at the European Under-17 Championships in 2014, scoring three goals, grabbing four assists and being named in the team of the tournament. However, further advancement towards the Under-21s squad and the senior team has been suddenly halted by a cold six months at City.

Ex-Motherwell defender Shaun Hutchison (Image: SNS)

Hutchinson, though, believes that is where Celtic can make the difference.

Roberts has little chance of featuring before the end of this season for City as they fight for four trophies with senior stars.

But Hutchinson knows those opportunities will come if he goes to Glasgow’s east end.

Even more importantly, the ex-Steelman feels the style of football and aura surrounding the Scottish champions will make them a perfect fir for Roberts.

He said: “I’m sure Patrick is just desperate to get out there and play some first-team football to improve himself.

“I’m sure he would be suited by going to Celtic. They are going to have an awful lot of the ball and will dominate possession in a lot of the matches.

“That means Patrick would get plenty of touches and chances to go past opponents.

“I’m sure it would be a good move for him and Celtic because he just needs to get those first-team chances.

“If he gets opportunities I’m sure he will really shoot on from there.

“I say that because the potential he has for his age is incredible.

“He has bags of ability and, if the potential he has is realised, I’m pretty sure he could go out there and play for absolutely anyone at any level.”